Summer is the perfect time to own
a pet. The long, warm days easily
turn into cherished memories as
you and your dog play, travel, or just relax in the sun. But the summer's lazy days shouldn't seep into your pooch's regular care routine. Nor
should you let your guard down
around summer's

heat and humidity,
which can be dangerous to your pooch. With careful planning, conscientious
care, and a little common sense, you and your dog can enjoy everything summer has to offer.

Visit your Veterinarian
Schedule your pet's annual checkup. Depending
on where you live, testing your dog for heartwormbefore starting a preventive is essential, as is
controlling parasites like fleas and ticks. While you
are there, get a current copy of your pet's medical
history and vaccinations to keep with you when you
travel.

Heel the Heat
Dogs don't sweat like humans. In fact, the only
sweat glands on a dog's body are near her paws. Alone, this does little to cool your dog. To aid the cooling process, your dog pants. To help combat summer's heat and humidity, monitor her outdoor time, never leave her in the car, and keep her:

Pack for Prevention
Summer is often packed full of fun. But whether your dog accompanies you across town to the park, across the country to relatives, or stays behind in a local kennel, her needs should be top priority. As always, being prepared is the best preventive
measure. Before you embark on any expedition, gather:

Medical Records - In an emergency, vaccination
and medical records save time. If going out of state or country, have an updated health certificate.

Identification Tags - If lost, this information could
quickly reunite you and your pet. If traveling, get
a second set oftags with a local contact name and your cell number.

First Aid Supplies - Keep these on hand for medical emergencies or to restock your first aid kit.

Water and Food - Eliminate potential digestive
problems with familiar water and food.